This article describes the risk factors, types, and causes of diabetic neuropathy. Common Types and Causes Diabetic neuropathy affects the peripheral nervous system and includes four types of nerve damage. They can begin at different times—and some people with diabetes might experience a few effects of diabetic neuropathy rather than all of them. These include: Peripheral neuropathy, which involves the small nerves in the hands and feet, is usually approximately equal on both sides of the body Proximal neuropathy, which affects nerves that control large muscles in the body, such as in the thighs and shoulders, is not usually symmetrical Autonomic neuropathy, which causes symptoms that interfere with digestion, urination, blood pressure, and heart function Focal neuropathy, which affects the control of one area of the body, like the arm, and not necessarily both sides of the body Diabetic neuropathy affects sensory nerves and motor nerves, causing pain, loss of sensation, and muscle weakness....